Horta in Faial Island, Azores: Exploring the City of Sailors

Horta: A Historic Port of Call for Sailors Crossing the Atlantic

 

The main city, Horta, though small, has a cosmopolitan feel, with travelers from all over gathering at the restaurants and bars along the harbor to swap stories and take in views of Pico across the bay.

 

Horta Marina of Faial Island, Azores Portugal
The famous paintings in Horta's marine on Faial Island, Azores

Nobody knows how the painting of the harbor walls first began. But one day, many years ago, the crew of a sailing vessel anchored in the harbor wanted to leave a souvenir of their visit to the island in the docks. This first painting was followed by others, gradually occupying the whole sea wall, which has been transformed into a brightly-colored mosaic of drawings evoking the many yachts that have stopped off in the marina. Faial’s long sailing tradition converges at Peter's Café Sport, a major cultural landmark and the coolest bar in town. Opened for more than 80 years, Peter’s is a mandatory stopping point for everyone visiting Faial, especially sailors. Make sure you try Peter’s most famous drink: the iconic gin.

 

Genuíno’s restaurant, owned by the first Portuguese man who sailed across the world alone not once, but twice
Genuino Madruga, a legendary sailor from the beautiful Faial Island in the Azores best known for being the first Portuguese to complete a solo circumnavigation of the world

Also visit Genuíno’s restaurant, owned by the first Portuguese man who sailed across the world alone not once, but twice. On board ‘’Hemingway’’, Genuino was reporting his lonely adventure to Portuguese rádios as he moved on, sharing his story with the world.

Sit down for an amazing dinner experience that will transport you all over the world. Appreciate the sailing decoration and vibe of the place and enjoy the dazzling view over Porto Pim Bay.

Are you already in love with the Azores? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate island adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Azorean Experts so that you don’t need to worry about any details – just enjoy your trip! 

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